Revamp for village’s hit
illuminations event

Council chiefs have announced changes to this year’s Matlock Bath Illuminations.

Derbyshire Dales District Council said it needed to make improvements to the long-running annual tradition – which attracted more than 100,000 visitors last year.

Four firework displays will be staged in October and the famous decorated boats parade will happen twice on these special nights, rather than just once as in previous years.

Additional entertainment in and around the bandstand in Derwent Gardens will happen only on Saturdays.

On those days, admission fees will be slightly higher for adults and over-60s at £5 and £4.50 respectively while children will be admitted for free.

Sundays will see a quieter presentation led by the Illuminations and the boats.

Councillor Steve Bull, chairman of Derbyshire Dales District Council’s environment committee, said: “The 2013 Matlock Bath Illuminations will be the 116th, but we are always looking for ways to improve how this fantastic tradition operates.”

This year’s Matlock Bath Illuminations will burst into life on August 31. The much-loved event was first held in 1897 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria.